Gophers football practice features the offense in white jerseys and the defense in red. Koi Perich wears both — a two-colored uniform stitched down the middle.

After bursting onto the college football scene as a true freshman with dazzling plays and competitive charisma, Perich has an elevated encore in store.

"I'm just here, whatever I can do to help my team," said the soft-spoken Perich. "If that's on offense I'm willing to do it. If it's on defense, I'm willing. Special teams. Anything to do, I'll do it."

Yes, the swashbuckling sophomore will play wide receiver in addition to safety in 2025. The pride of Esko, Minnesota, did it in high school, as many do. College is different.

"I always wanted to do it coming out of high school," explained Perich, who had five interceptions in 2

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